Moisture is the main trigger of mold growth. Clues to excess moisture include condensation on windows, stains on walls or ceilings and leaks in the roof.
Mold and mildew thrive in damp areas and can be difficult to remove once it settles in. The best approach is to prevent the problem from occurring in the first place.
Avoid wetness
Moisture is mold’s best friend in its quest to grow and spread. To stop it, dry the affected area immediately and get air moving. You can do this by opening windows, turning on standing fans and putting your home’s HVAC system to work.
Ideally, a damp surface should be dry within 48 hours to prevent mold growth and limit the spread of wet spores. This is why it is important to clean up spills, fix leaks and maintain a dehumidifier in the basement or other places where moisture tends to accumulate.
You should also pay attention to the condition of the storage room in your new home where books, clothes, camping gear and other household items are stored. This is where you will find many of the spores that may cause problems. Be sure to use a well-built shed or other storage solution that will help keep your household goods from getting wet.
Keep It Clean
Moisture is the root of most mold problems. If it’s not eliminated quickly, mold spores can spread throughout the house. Mold spores can also trigger allergies and other health problems, and they’re difficult to remove from wallpapers, wood furniture and carpets.
High humidity makes your home muggy in summer and clammy in winter. Keeping humidity below 50 percent is the best way to prevent mold from growing in your new home. You can monitor the humidity in your home by using an inexpensive hygrometer.
It’s important to wipe up any spills as soon as they occur and dry wet items immediately. Wet towels can easily develop that funky mildew smell, so don’t leave them bundled up on the floor or in a closet. You can use a towel rack or hang them outside to help speed up drying times. Also, make sure to clean the basement and attic of your new home.
Keep It Dryer
Moisture is mold’s food, so one of the best ways to keep mold away is to make sure that your house is dry. You can accomplish this by having a hygrometer, which measures humidity levels and alerts you to problems. Keeping windows open is a good idea, especially during the warmer months when moisture will naturally be drawn out of your home by outdoor air.
When you notice signs of excess moisture, such as a water stain on a wall or condensation on windows, address them right away. Dry any affected areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent the spread of mold spores. Mold from damaged garbage disposal can lead to bacteria growth and spreading around the kitchen. Replacement of these appliances will be important so checking on your home warranty may supply you with a new one. If you don’t have one and are looking into one, home warranty reviews will be the best bet to signing up with a reputable company and what they offer.
It’s also important to take care of everyday habits. For example, a wet towel left on the floor will allow mildew to grow and should be promptly dried or hung up. And don’t leave umbrellas or bundled up clothes lying around on the ground after a rainstorm. They may not seem like big deals, but they’re the perfect environment for mold to thrive in.
Keep It Cleaner
New houses are built with airtight seals that will keep in the heat and cold, but they will also trap moisture inside. This can be a major cause of mold. During construction, try to use mold-resistant drywall and insulation.
Another way to prevent mold is by cleaning thoroughly. Use a bleach cleanser on surfaces and vacuum and dust frequently. This includes corners, vents and fans. Using a telescopic vacuum wand is a great way to get to hard-to-reach places.
It’s important to properly ventilate your house, especially during the summer. Keeping windows open isn’t practical in the winter, but you can run a dehumidifier that will switch on as soon as humidity reaches 60%. Use a dehumidifier in high moisture areas, such as the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room.
Mold is not only unsightly but certain types of mold can also be hazardous to your health. Mold can cause various respiratory and skin problems, but it can also ruin wallpapers, wooden furniture, and carpets. In addition, it can even cost you thousands of dollars in home renovation costs.
If you don’t want your new house to be a breeding ground for mold, you should regularly clean it. This includes removing dirt and debris from the roof gutters, and
making sure they are properly graded so that rainwater is directed away from the foundation.
Proper ventilation is also crucial to prevent mold. Ensure that there is sufficient airflow in all rooms and keep humidity below 60-65%; you can do this by opening windows, using an air conditioner with dehumidifiers, and adding moisture-absorbing cellulose to your walls and ceilings. It’s also important to use mold-resistant building materials and paints when renovating your home.